Infrared Rangefinders with Advanced Sensing Technology by ERDI Tech

With rich industry experience, ERDI Tech Ltd. has led several innovations in sensing technology, one being advanced infrared-enabled laser rangefinders. 

Infrared (IR) rangefinders are devices that measure distance by sending out invisible infrared light and calculating the time of return. These devices are empowering a wide array of modern sensing systems, ranging from tiny proximity sensors to long-range measurement tools as used on drones and mapping rigs. In the last few years, the technology has seen advances in sensors, emitters, electronics and algorithms. As a system, they make IR ranging faster, more accurate, cheaper and more adaptable across various industrial applications. 

ERDI experts offer a walk-through of the key technical advances in modern infrared range finders, then show how those improvements are being applied across industries. 

Infrared technology in modern rangefinders:

Better time-of-flight measurements 

Most infrared rangefinders today use some form of time-of-flight measurements, either direct ToF (timing a pulse) or indirect/phase methods. Improvements in timing circuits and signal processing have increased accuracy and reduced jitter at short and medium ranges, enabling centimeter-level performance in small, low-power modules. 

Single-photon detectors (SPADs) and higher sensitivity

Single-photon avalanche diodes (SPADs) let sensors detect extremely weak return signals, extending range and improving performance against low-reflectivity targets. SPAD-based direct ToF systems are a major contributor to high-precision short- to mid-range LiDAR and rangefinder designs. 

Compact, low-cost infrared emitters

Vertical-cavity surface-emitting lasers (VCSELs) and integrated laser packages have reduced emitter cost and size, and system complexity. 

Solid-state scanning and multi-return/LiDAR-style features

Eliminating bulky heads has been possible through solid-state approaches (electronic beam steering, MEMS mirrors, flash ToF and multi-pixel SPAD arrays). That allows compact modules to capture richer spatial data — not just a single distance but depth maps or multi-return profiles. 

Smarter on-sensor processing and ambient-light rejection 

Modern infrared range finders can operate more reliably with on-chip signal processing, better ambient light suppression, and AI-algorithmic denoising. However, for long-range outdoor performance, higher-power pulsed systems (LiDAR) are essential. 

Precision measurement across industries:

Defense, law enforcement and security

IR laser rangefinders remain core tools for targeting, surveillance and night-vision systems. Market demand and R&D investments continue strong growth in this sector. 

Unmanned systems technology like drones, UAVs and surveying (geomatics)

Small airborne platforms increasingly use compact IR rangefinders and flash-ToF modules for obstacle avoidance, altitude estimation and terrain mapping. Solid-state LiDAR and multi-pixel ToF add richer 3-D context while keeping weight and power down. 

Automotive and autonomous vehicles

Smaller ToF/IR modules are adopted for short-range parking assist, interior occupant sensing and certain ADAS functions. Sensor fusion (camera + radar + LiDAR/ToF) can be used for robust autonomy. 

Robotics and automation (warehouse, manufacturing, service robots)

Compact IR ToF sensors provide low-latency obstacle detection, mapping for SLAM (simultaneous localization and mapping), and proximity safety functions on service and industrial robots. 

Agriculture and environmental monitoring

Thermal-IR sensors and ToF depth data help agricultural robots detect crop stress, map canopy height and drive targeted interventions. 

About ERDI Tech

Leading the global design and manufacturing of sensing products, ERDI Tech takes pride in providing custom sensing solutions to a wide range of industries. The company also leads innovation in laser-based product development.